Construction is underway on a new cruise terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa, with operations scheduled to begin in March 2028.

The project brings together Naha Port Authority, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group through Cruise Port Naha G.K., a joint venture representing the interests of the two cruise groups.

The planned terminal will provide purpose-built passenger-processing facilities and improve the port’s ability to handle larger ships and turnaround operations. Naha’s position in southern Japan makes it a strategic gateway for itineraries connecting Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and other destinations across East Asia. 

Planning information indicates that the facility will serve Shinminato Wharf’s No. 12 berth. The berth is expected to measure approximately 430 meters and have a depth of 12 meters.

It is being designed for ships of up to approximately 220,000 gross tons, with even larger vessels potentially accepted following safety assessments. The terminal building is expected to cover around 4,000 square meters and support turnaround operations involving approximately 6,000 passengers. 

Royal Caribbean Group and MSC Cruises are expected to receive preferential use of the berth under the development agreement. The port anticipates 71 calls from the partner cruise groups in 2028, including 40 MSC calls and 31 associated with Royal Caribbean Group.